Quick answer: For a 1,720-mile move from San Antonio to Oakland, expect to spend around $1,365–$8,303 and four to 15 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Oakland to San Antonio guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from San Antonio to Oakland

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from San Antonio to Oakland can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your TX to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 134 Texas movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local movers servicing San Antonio to Oakland moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in San Antonio that also provides long-distance services to Oakland can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in San Antonio who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from San Antonio to Oakland.

  1. 3 Men Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Arrow Moving & Storage Company Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Apple Moving : 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Swift Movers LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Evolution Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/3MenMoversAustin/, https://twitter.com/Orig3MenMovers
92% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s what most feedback about 3 Men Movers shows. Analyzing 278 customer reviews, 91.7% praised the company's fast work, careful service, and friendly, respectful teams. Customers consistently highlighted efficient and speedy moves, with staff regularly noted as both professional and attentive to property.
Many found their belongings treated with care and felt comfortable throughout the process, something not always matched by competitors. Rates were seen as reasonable, and communication from booking to delivery was clear and responsive. While the vast majority gave top marks, 7.6% of feedback described property damage and unresolved claims. Some highlighted a lack of follow-up or inadequate compensation for lost or broken items. A few also reported delays or unexpected costs. These negative experiences stand out due to the inconvenience and stress caused, especially when issues weren't resolved quickly. Very few reviews fell in the middle; when they did, they often mentioned good moving service but dissatisfaction with how complaints were handled. The positive experiences far outweigh the complaints, positioning 3 Men Movers as a trustworthy choice for most, though those with valuable or fragile items may wish to clarify insurance and handling processes before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (210) 337-6683

Company Info

State license #: 000534796B

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 1914113

Alternate Names: 3 Men Movers LTD


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/ArrowMoving/, https://twitter.com/arrowmovers?lang=en
91% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing customer feedback highlights Arrow Moving & Storage Company Inc as a leader in moving efficiency and care. Out of 233 reviews, 91% are positive, pointing to efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, quick moving, and organized packing as customer favorites. Many describe staff as courteous, hardworking, and attentive—qualities that make moves less stressful.
Feedback stresses punctuality, speed, and attentiveness to special requests, setting Arrow apart from typical experiences with moving companies. Negative feedback, making up just under 9%, mostly centers on items being damaged, carelessness in packing, and occasional delays or miscommunications. Some customers report frustrations with damaged property or a rushed job impacting the safety of their belongings. Neutral feedback often notes that quick service sometimes led to minor damage, or challenges with problem-solving during unloading. Arrow Moving & Storage stands out for professionalism, speed, and communication, but consistent care in handling and packing remains an area for improvement to match the best in the business.
Show more
Get a Quote (210) 359-1333

Company Info

State license #: 006630542C

Years in Business: 55

DOT #: 22889

Alternate Names: Arrow Moving & Storage Co., Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/applemovingsanantonio/, https://twitter.com/AppleMoversSA
75% of all reviews were positive
25% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Apple Moving receives high praise for professionalism, efficiency, and friendly service, with 74.5% of customer feedback rating the experience positively out of 235 reviews analyzed. Positive input highlights the staff’s courteous, careful handling, and quick, helpful moving process. Many customers appreciate respectful crews who communicate well, pack thoroughly, and work efficiently.
However, negative responses—about a quarter of feedback—point to significant concerns: damage to items, missing belongings, and instances of unprofessional behavior including alleged theft and rudeness. Broken furniture, lost property, and careless packing are main complaints. While Apple Moving stands out for its efficiency and professionalism compared to many competitors, recurring loss and damage issues affect trust for moves involving valuable or irreplaceable items.
Show more
Get a Quote (210) 310-0139

Company Info

State license #: 0000007729

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1934458


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/swiftmoverz/,
96% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Swift Movers LLC consistently impresses customers with efficient moves, polite and hard-working teams, and careful handling of belongings. Most input highlights professionals who communicate well and complete jobs quickly, with many noting stress-free moves where staff protect valuables and follow instructions carefully. Swift Movers earns high marks for friendly workers who arrive promptly, pack with care, and keep clients informed throughout.
Many say they would hire them again without hesitation. Despite a high rate of positive feedback, a few reports stand out: some clients mention serious concerns about property damage, broken or missing items, and delays contacting the company or getting claims resolved. Complaints about compensation and damage handling appear rarely but deserve attention. Compared to other movers, Swift Movers stands out for consistently fast, careful, and friendly service, though reviewing insurance and damage policies ahead of time is wise. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, 96.4% praised the company, making Swift Movers one of the most reliably recommended moving services in its area.
Show more
Get a Quote (210) 371-5766

Company Info

State license #: 006903095C

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2632638


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/evolutionmovingcompany, https://twitter.com/evolutionmoving
97% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Evolution Moving Company shines with efficiency and professionalism. Of 260 reviews, 97% describe positive experiences, and most highlight the crew's speedy service, polite approach, careful handling of property, and transparent communication. Many appreciate the quick, stress-free moves and reasonable pricing, often mentioning a smooth booking process and organized staff—an edge over many competitors.
Few clients report issues: some experienced minor or significant damage to items, difficulty getting proper compensation or follow-up, and rare complaints of higher costs than quoted. Compared to other moving services, Evolution stands out for consistent care, efficiency, and trustworthy teams, but could improve complaint response and consistency in protecting client property. Most customers recommend this company for reliable, friendly moving help.
Show more
Get a Quote (210) 944-8858

Company Info

State license #: 006779351C

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2467590

Alternate Names: Evolution Moving, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from San Antonio to Oakland?

San Antonio movers charge $96 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,518 - $6,177 $1,261 - $3,240 $1,261 - $2,473
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,764 - $8,303 $2,319 - $4,881 $1,365 - $2,942
4+ bedrooms $6,839 - $12,877 $3,392 - $6,742 $1,634 - $3,387
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,720 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Texas to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Texas to California will cost between $1,518 and $6,177. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from TX to CA will range from $3,764 to $8,303, and a large move from Texas to California will cost from $6,839 to $12,877.

Cost of moving containers from Texas to California

If you're moving from Texas to California, expect to pay between $1,261 and $3,240 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,319 up to $4,881. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,392 and $6,742. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Texas to California

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you'll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,261 and $2,473. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,365 to $2,942. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,634 and $3,387.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from San Antonio to Oaklandtoggle

The cost of San Antonio movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from San Antonio to Oakland might cost just $1,518 for a one-bedroom, but up to $11,558 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in San Antonio, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,261 and $3,126, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from San Antonio to Oakland

Moving from San Antonio to Oakland comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Oakland is generally more expensive than San Antonio, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Antonio Oakland
Average rent cost $1,496 $2,200
Average home value $249,398 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $62,451 $94,389
Cost of living (single person) $2,194 $3,146
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,931 $8,584
Unemployment rate 3.8% 4.5%
Sales tax 8.25% 10.25%
State income tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Oakland, since prices are typically 47% higher than in San Antonio.
  • The home prices in Oakland are 195.2% higher than in San Antonio, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Oakland, where incomes are, on average, 51.1% higher than in San Antonio. Major employers in Oakland include Kaiser Permanente, Dreyer's, and The Clorox Company.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Oakland, since the cost of living for a single person in Oakland is 43.4% higher than in San Antonio. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Oakland, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Oakland is 74.1% higher than in San Antonio.
  • The unemployment rate in Oakland is 18.42% higher than in San Antonio.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Oakland, since its sales taxes are 24.24% higher than what you are paying in San Antonio.
  • State income taxes in Oakland are 13.30% higher than in San Antonio.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,301.73 in Oakland to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in San Antonio.

How life is different in San Antonio vs. Oakland

Oakland San Antonio
Population 440,646 1,434,625
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 6
Walkability score 75 37
Bike friendliness score 65 45
Crime Index 68.62 48.06
Safety Index 31.38 51.94
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Oakland might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 69% less than San Antonio.
  • Oakland offers better access to buses and trains than San Antonio, based on public transportation ratings. Oakland has a transit score of 8 out of 10 compared to 6 in San Antonio. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Oakland means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in San Antonio. Oakland is considered more walkable than San Antonio, with a score of 75 out of 100 versus 37 out of 100 in San Antonio. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Oakland is considered more bike-friendly than San Antonio in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Oakland has a bike-friendliness score of 65 out of 100, while San Antonio is rated as 45 out of 100.
  • The crime rate in Oakland is higher than in San Antonio, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 68.62 in Oakland, it is 48.06 in San Antonio. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Oakland. With a crime index of 31.38, Oakland ranks lower in overall safety than San Antonio, whose index is 51.94. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Oakland has better air quality than in San Antonio. Oakland has Good air quality, compared to moderate in San Antonio. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your San Antonio vs. Oakland move

  • Weather: Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Oakland. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Oakland

Now that you've decided to make the move to Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Oakland.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Oakland has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Oakland include museums and art centers like the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, Oakland Aviation Museum, and African American Museum and Library.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Oakland Athletics (MLB) and Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Antonio to Oakland?

The best time to move from San Antonio to Oakland is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in San Antonio.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Antonio to Oakland?

With many people choosing to move from San Antonio to Oakland in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from San Antonio to Oakland take?

The 1,720-mile move from San Antonio, TX, to Oakland, CA, takes four to 15 days. Some San Antonio movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Oakland.

Helpful moving resources